McKinney Colon Cancer Screening
Why is colon cancer screening so important?
Colon cancer screening is one of the most successful endeavors in our current times to change someone’s health trajectory. According to recent cancer statistics published by the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute, approximately 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will develop colorectal cancer during their lifetime.
What makes this even more sobering is that colon cancer is highly preventable with the right colorectal cancer screening strategies. Every month, I diagnose between two and four new colorectal cancer cases, many of which could have been prevented with timely screening tests.
Most of these patients deeply regret missing the opportunity to undergo tests to detect colorectal cancer. A simple, elective screening colonoscopy, typically lasting 30 minutes, could prevent the need for chemotherapy, invasive surgery, and the emotional and physical toll that comes with a colon cancer diagnosis.
Colon cancer prevention is most effective when regular screening is performed, especially for individuals at average or increased risk.
The classic signs of colon cancer can include blood in the stool, unintentional weight loss, persistent changes in bowel movement patterns, iron deficiency anemia, and abdominal discomfort such as bloating or cramping. Unfortunately, not everyone with colorectal polyps or early-stage cancer presents with symptoms, which makes early detection through routine colorectal screening essential.
Colon cancer usually develops from precancerous polyps, particularly adenomatous polyps. This is why colorectal cancer screening guidelines emphasize the dual purpose of screening: first, to detect colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps, and second, to remove them before they become cancerous.
People with a history of Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn’s disease are at increased risk for colorectal cancer. These patients often require more frequent and earlier screening.
If you have any of the following exclusion criteria, you do not qualify for
direct colon cancer screening.
You must schedule an office visit at this number 469-800-4500.
Medical City Surgery Center of North Texas
Located in Anna, TX, Medical City Surgery Center of North Texas is a leader in precision GI care. If you are in the north DFW area, and searching for a “colon cancer screening near me,” we are proud to be the only facility in the region equipped with GI Genius™, a state-of-the-art artificial intelligence tool designed to improve the detection of colorectal polyps.
This location is the second in Texas, after MD Anderson, to implement GI Genius™, offering advanced colorectal screening tests at no additional cost to the patient. This AI-enhanced system scans the entire colon, improving our ability to identify abnormal tissue, such as precancerous polyps, with greater precision.
What are the best options for North Texas colon cancer screening?
Colonoscopy Pros:
A skilled gastroenterologist in North Texas performing a colonoscopy should leave no polyps behind, demonstrating the ability to detect, localize, and remove them effectively. Colonoscopy offers direct visualization tests of the colon and rectum using a tiny video camera. This powerful test boasts a high detection rate for large colon polyps, at 95%, along with the capability to remove them.
Colonoscopy is the only screening test that allows both detection and removal of precancerous polyps in the same procedure, which is why it is the gold standard for colon cancer prevention.
If a colonoscopy reveals no precancerous polyps and there’s no personal or family history of colon cancer, the next screening for average risk adults can typically be in 10 years. This extended interval highlights the test’s efficacy. Furthermore, a colonoscopy is a valuable tool for patients with a family history of colon cancer or a personal history of colon polyps.
Colonoscopy Cons:
This is a very minimally invasive procedure, with very small risks such as bleeding, perforation requiring surgery, and complications with anesthesia. The procedure does require a bowel preparation cleanse the day before and a day off from work for the procedure itself. The success of the procedure is also operator-dependent.
Cologuard Pros:
Cologuard is a non-invasive colorectal cancer screening test that requires only a stool sample collected at home, making it a convenient option for many patients. It does not require any bowel preparation, sedation, or time off from work, which makes it especially appealing for those who are unable or unwilling to undergo a colonoscopy.
Cologuard Cons:
While Cologuard is effective at detecting existing cancer, its limitations in finding precancerous polyps are a significant concern for prevention. This stool DNA testing only detects 42% of large precancerous polyps, which is significantly less than the 95% detection rate achieved by colonoscopy.
Cologuard also has a notable 13% false-positive test results, often causing anxiety and frequently leading to a follow-up colonoscopy regardless. Additionally, there’s an 8% false-negative rate, meaning Cologuard can report a ‘normal’ result even when cancer or a precancerous polyp is present. Due to these factors, the FDA requires a repeat Cologuard test every three years, even with normal results, whereas a normal colonoscopy allows for a 10-year interval between screening for colorectal cancer. It is also important to note that it is NOT FDA approved for patients with family history of colon cancer or personal history of colon polyps.
Cologuard is not recommended for those with ulcerative colitis, crohn’s disease, or a personal or family history of colon polyps, as these individuals have increased risk and require more sensitive screening.
Colon cancer screening is not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ concept. Every patient is unique. Therefore, we discuss the pros and cons of different screening tests to determine the best fit for each individual patient.
For me personally, I have had 2 colonoscopy procedures. I also perform my own parents’ and friends’ colonoscopy procedures. I have been a gastroenterologist for 10 years and have performed over 18,000 colonoscopy procedures. I find extreme fulfillment knowing that many patients’ lives are thriving without colon cancer lurking around due to North Texas colon cancer screening. Due to my additional training in therapeutic endoscopy, I can remove larger polyps endoscopically in the majority of instances, eliminating the need for surgical options.
How to prepare for your colonoscopy
Proper preparation is critical to ensure a successful screening colonoscopy. The preparation includes specific dietary changes, a bowel prep solution, and timing instructions to cleanse the colon. We provide downloadable instructions tailored to the type of prep prescribed. These steps help us thoroughly examine your entire colon and detect any abnormal tissue or colorectal polyps.
If you have questions about your screening or preparation, you can talk with our team at any time. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable at every stage of the process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colon Cancer
Book Your Colon Cancer Screening in North Texas Today
Don’t delay this important step in protecting your health! Colon cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths, but it is preventable with early detection. Dr. Kim’s direct Colonoscopy program makes it easier than ever to schedule your screening. Skip the wait and book your colonoscopy today for peace of mind and a healthier tomorrow.